News

For those looking for a way to escape this Autumn and Winter, West Dean College of Arts and Conservation has just launched their new programme of arts and crafts short courses for October 2022 through to March 2023.

There are 20 new tutors for the AW22/23 Season and more than 70 new courses encapsulating themes such as traditional crafts, learning from other cultures, to being eco friendly and sustainable. The courses could also make a wonderful and memorable gift as they offer the perfect opportunity to try a new craft or the chance to return to a lost skill.

There's a wide variety of courses available – over 400m short courses, in fact – all taught by expert tutors, which are on sale now via www.westdean.ac.uk. Courses span from one to five days, are suitable for all abilities, and range in price from £128 upwards. Set in the heart of the South Downs National Park, the College’s rural setting makes it an ideal place to escape, recharge, and immerse yourself in a new skill.

Traditional & heritage crafts

West Dean College is committed to supporting endangered crafts and showcasing those traditional crafts. Among the new tutors is historical blacksmith Joe Tyler, who'll be inspired by the skills of the Saxons and Vikings with Medieval ironwork – 18–19 February 2023 – suitable for all – £315.

Furniture and woodworking courses with new tutors include 'Woodturning for Beginners' with Stefano Santilli, which offers the opportunity to create an individual three-legged stool and learn a wide variety of woodturning techniques and skills that can be applied to future projects – 13–15 January 2023  – suitable for beginners – £299.

There's also Shaker box making with Richard Gibson, which will give participants the chance to make a beautiful set of three nesting Shaker boxes – 8–10 February 2023 – suitable for all – £349.

Lastly, Richard Findley’s course on 'Woodturning – Better Bowl Turning' allows you to practice your lathe skills – 28–30 March 2023 – intermediate – £328. 

For full details, plus information on accommodation, visit www.westdean.ac.uk. Bookings can be made online or by calling 01243 818 300.